Q: I was wondering how recruiters view long-term internship programs at larger papers vs. starting jobs at smaller newspapers. I have just graduated from college and am starting the job search. Some newspapers, such as the Oregonian and the St. Petersburg Times, offer one- to two-year internship programs that allow their interns to have reporting experience on a beat along with mentoring and training. At the same time, these programs are not actual jobs. How do recruiters view programs like this? Do they regard these programs as highly as a starting job?
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A: The people admitted to these programs don't have the same experience as people coming into permanent jobs at the papers, but they get good editing and experience. Although other people at the newspaper might get more attention, you will be further ahead in one of these programs than if you spent the same amount of time at a much small paper that lacked resources or training opportunities.
